Consider This from NPR Beth Israel Congregation rebuilds after arson, saying "there's healing that comes"
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Jan 18, 2026 Rachel Myers, leader of the religious school at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, discusses the resilience of her community following a devastating arson attack. She shares how the congregation is rebuilding while emphasizing the importance of joy and healing during services. Rachel explores how she's teaching children about the damage and encouraging their creative ideas for a new space. Reflecting on the synagogue's history, she connects past civil rights struggles to their present efforts, showcasing the power of communal resistance and faith.
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Joy As A Form Of Resilience
- Rachel Myers emphasizes that joy and resilience sustained the congregation after the arson.
- She frames communal worship and songs as central to healing and continuity.
Children Turn Damage Into Determination
- Rachel showed Sunday school kids photos of the damage and then asked them to imagine the next space.
- The children responded by saying "be more Jewish than ever," turning trauma into determination.
Teach, Then Mobilize Kids
- Teach children about what happened but quickly focus on rebuilding and next steps.
- Encourage active participation to turn fear into collective action and learning.